The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed that a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation is currently underway in response to a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) explosion at Adeyi Estate in Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo State.
The incident was reported to the NEMA South West Zonal Office through a distressed alert at approximately 19:30 hrs.
According to situation report from the agency, upon receiving the report, the Zonal Coordinator promptly mobilized response agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Department of State Services (DSS), State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Nigeria Army, Federal and State Fire Service, Nigerian Red Cross, State Ministry of Environment, and the Amotekun Corps.
It added that the explosion has impacted more than twenty houses in Bodija GRA, located behind Ace Mall in Ibadan. “As of now, the exact casualty figures remain undetermined, emphasizing the complexity of the ongoing SAR operation. Stakeholders from various agencies are collaborating to manage the situation effectively. Additional resources are being mobilized to enhance and support the ongoing SAR operations. In response to the incident, security has been heightened in the affected area,” the report stated.
The SAR operation at the explosion site was temporarily suspended to allow responders to refresh, with operations scheduled to resume at 7:00 am the following morning. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to coordinate additional support to facilitate seamless operations.
The situation is reported to be under control, and measures are being put in place to ensure the smooth execution of the ongoing operations. Updates will be provided as further information becomes available.
